South Korea has selected GE Aerospace's LM2500+G4 marine gas turbines to power its six KDDX-class destroyers, a key component of the nation's next-generation surface combatant program. The KDDX program aims to replace aging destroyers with a modern, fully electric propulsion-enabled fleet capable of integrating advanced weapons and sensor systems. Each KDDX destroyer will use two LM2500+G4 turbines, totaling twelve units across the six-ship class.
Why it matters
- The LM2500+G4 selection continues a long-standing partnership between GE Aerospace and South Korea, which has already supplied 163 engines for 95 vessels.
- Domestic production of turbine components by Hanwha Aerospace and NRTEC strengthens South Korea's defense industrial base and reduces reliance on foreign sourcing.
- Hanwha Aerospace will manufacture various components and handle assembly, testing, and long-term support, while NRTEC in Busan will produce lightweight composite enclosures.
The composite enclosures developed by NRTEC reduce weight by over 2,500 kilograms per unit, lower operational noise by 60%, and decrease surface temperature by 25–50°F. The LM2500+G4 entered service in 2012 and is currently in use aboard FREMM frigates operated by Italy, France, Egypt, and Morocco, as well as selected for the U.S. Navy's Constellation-class frigates and DDG(X) test platform.
Why it matters for Turkey
This decision underscores South Korea's strategy to modernize its naval forces while advancing indigenous defense production. The all-electric propulsion architecture of the KDDX class will provide the electrical capacity needed for future high-energy weapons, such as railguns or directed-energy systems, and powerful radar suites. The adoption of proven, NATO-compatible turbine technology also enhances interoperability with allied navies and may influence future multinational naval cooperation.
Source: Defence İndustry